BOSTON — After eight seasons with the New York Knicks, Mitchell Robinson made his debut for the Boston Celtics Friday night, marking a significant transition in his NBA career. Robinson, a key figure in the Knicks’ 2026 championship team, signed a three-year, $47.4 million contract with Boston during free agency this offseason.

Speaking before the Celtics’ home opener against his former team, Robinson reflected on his departure from New York with a sense of acceptance. He acknowledged the Knicks did not extend him a contract offer, saying, “That’s what it felt like,” and described his move as a “fresh start” without any hard feelings. Despite spending much of his career amid trade rumors and contract uncertainties—including a notable trade discussion in 2025 and declining contract extensions—Robinson emphasized his understanding of basketball’s business side.

“Anything can happen, I can be traded at any moment,” Robinson said. “I was in so many of those trade talks. I’m like, ‘I just got to see it as a business. You can’t let your feelings in it.’”

Robinson’s departure was influenced by Knicks owner James Dolan’s directive to keep the team’s payroll under the salary cap’s second apron, making it difficult for New York to retain the 28-year-old center. The Knicks had ruled his return “very unlikely” ahead of free agency, a situation Robinson said he did not fully grasp but accepted.

“I’m not too focused on it. But it is what it is,” he said.

The decision to join a rival team, however, brought a competitive edge to Robinson’s move. He admitted to enjoying the opportunity to “troll” Knicks fans and poke fun at his former team.

On the court, Robinson delivered notable moments during Boston’s 107-103 victory over New York, including a emphatic block against Karl-Anthony Towns and a consecutive rebound and alley-oop dunk sequence late in the third quarter. The crowd’s appreciation was evident when Robinson was subbed out after picking up his fifth foul, receiving a warm ovation at TD Garden.

With the Celtics, Robinson is expected to continue his primary role as a rebounder but is also eager to expand his offensive contributions. Known for his screening and defensive presence in New York, he now aims to be “a lot more active” offensively, saying he is “constantly moving” and “bringing the energy” to his new team.

Robinson conceded that his performance in Boston’s season opener against Detroit was below expectations, citing an early ankle injury as a factor in his limited impact. He finished with four points and three rebounds in 18 minutes, expressing disappointment and a determination to improve.

“Knowing damn well I could be way better than what I showed,” Robinson said.

Despite the relocation, some Knicks players expressed respect for Robinson’s competitive nature. Point guard Jalen Brunson called him “a competitor” who “gives 110 percent regardless of which team he plays for,” underscoring Robinson’s emotional investment and professionalism through his time in New York and now in Boston.